How do the children and the dog help each other feel better after their loss?

This is a discussion prompt for The Poet's Dog by Patricia MacLachlan. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What does it mean to 'recapture love' after a sad time?

This is a discussion prompt for The Poet's Dog by Patricia MacLachlan. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

How do you think the poet felt, and how did the dog help him?

This is a discussion prompt for The Poet's Dog by Patricia MacLachlan. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

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The Poet's Dog

Name: The Poet's Dog
ISBN: 9781782691709

by Patricia MacLachlan

Teddy, a dog who speaks only to children, rescues siblings lost in a blizzard. Together, they navigate grief and the memory of a poet in this lyrical tale.

About This Book

From the Newbery Medal-winning author, a poignant story about two children, a poet and a dog, and how they help one another survive loss and recapture love

Concepts

Sadness & Grief Resilience & Perseverance Love & Family Friendship & Loyalty Empathy & Kindness Joy & Gratitude Death of a Loved One Making Friends Dogs Friendship & Social

Heads up, parents

sadness_grief

Character Death

Wonderlit Review

Patricia MacLachlan's 'The Poet's Dog' is a tender and heartfelt chapter book exploring themes of loss, healing, and the power of connection. While the specific nature of the loss isn't detailed, the story focuses on how two children, a poet, and his dog navigate grief and find comfort in each other's presence. The emotional arc moves from sadness towards hope and the rediscovery of joy. This book is ideal for children aged 6-9 who may be experiencing or processing a loss, or simply need a gentle, comforting story about empathy and friendship. Parents can use this book to open conversations about difficult feelings and the importance of supporting one another. The poetic language and the central role of the dog make it a unique and memorable read.